Virtual individual cognitive stimulation therapy in Hong Kong: A mixed methods feasibility study

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Neuroscience
• Psychiatry

Background:

• Cognitive Stimulation Therapy (CST) is a non-pharmacological intervention for dementia.
• Virtual reality offers new avenues for delivering cognitive interventions.
• Cultural adaptation is crucial for effective implementation in diverse populations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To translate and culturally adapt Virtual Individual Cognitive Stimulation Therapy (V-iCST) for the Hong Kong Chinese population.
• To evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of V-iCST in this demographic.
• To assess the impact of V-iCST on cognition, quality of life, mood, and communication.

Main Methods:

• A mixed-methods case series design with 8 participants.
• Feasibility assessed via attrition and attendance rates.
• Outcomes (cognition, QoL, mood, communication) measured pre- and post-intervention using reliable change index.
• Acceptability evaluated through thematic analysis of interviews and content analysis of session feedback.

Main Results:

• V-iCST demonstrated high feasibility with 0% attrition and 100% attendance.
• Participants showed reliable improvements in cognition and mood (depression).
• No reliable changes were observed in quality of life.
• Qualitative data indicated V-iCST was acceptable but required some participant assistance.

Conclusions:

• V-iCST is a feasible and acceptable intervention for Hong Kong Chinese individuals with dementia.
• The adapted V-iCST shows potential for improving cognitive function and mood.
• Further research is warranted to explore its effects on quality of life and communication.